Redoble Family

Fr. Joseph Aveni, an italian rogationist missionary in the Philippines for three decades, died last July 24.  It was a sad experience for the rogationist community but also a hope-filled celebration of the holiness and sanctity of this person we call, “father”.  For so indeed he was to us, his spiritual children, guided by him in the novitiate and assisted by him all through the years of our formation.

Today, I decided to visit his tomb; rather, yesterday it was that I planned to visit him.  Never came to my mind though that three months have already passed after his death. Time passes so fast.  I visit his tomb every week since … bringing fresh flowers … light candles … and pray to God through him.  Asking his intercession for all the worries of life, all the sick who ask for healing, well, everything that can be prayed for.  He must have chuckled every time I arrive at his tomb .. bringing with me requests of people who really wish God’s healing and miracles.  Fresh flowers and candles from me .. prayers from him!

This afternoon was different.  I told Manong Nerio, our driver (who used to drive  fr. Aveni, too) and Roy, our sacristan, that we shall be leaving at Three O’clock.  At two O’clock, there was a heavy downpour, the cloud was full of rain ready to flood the roads. I told Roy that if the rains would not stop at Three O’clock, we will not proceed to the cemetery anymore.

Exactly Three O’clock, the rains stopped .. the clouds parted and a beautiful sun appeared.  And so, off we went to the cemetery. We brought fresh flowers .. light candles .. pull away weeds .. clean the clutter .. and prayed.  An hour after, we were on our way back home and arrived at the parish church without a hitch.  At Five O’clock, the clouds became heavy .. all was dark .. rains began pouring in ..and it was raining cats and dogs!  The streets were flooded!  Oh my!  How could it be, I was wondering.  Just an hour ago, there was a beautiful sun!

Then I remember, it was the third month after the death of Fr. Joseph. Coincidence or not,  he must have wanted us to visit him!  I remembered how he looked forward and roll called the confreres who came to his bed and visited him while he was alive!  He must have missed us that much.  He must be happy every time a confrere or two remembers him and visits his tomb. Up in heaven, I know he continues to pray for us .. and will continue to pray for the intentions I bring to his tomb!  As the song goes, “the candles burnt out long ago, but the legend never will..” (Elton John)

Fr. Joseph Aveni, pray for us always.

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